Abrasive strip dispenser

ABSTRACT

An abrasive strip dispenser including a housing defining an interior volume and an aperture extending through the housing such that the interior volume is in open communication with an outside area, and a guide element disposed along an exterior surface of the housing, wherein the abrasive strip is disposable within the housing such that the abrasive strip extends through the aperture and the guide element.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/097,403 entitled “ABRASIVE STRIP DISPENSER,” by Darrell K. Everts, et al., filed Dec. 29, 2014, which is assigned to the current assignee hereof and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to abrasive strips, and more particularly to a dispenser for holding and dispensing an abrasive strip.

RELATED ART

Abrasive strips typically include elongated strips of abrasive material wound into rolls. Users can unwind a suitable length of the abrasive strip from the roll and perforate the strip at a desired location. However, upon completing an abrasive operation, the abrasive strip is typically left uncovered or exposed during which time it can unwind or become damaged.

The industry continues to demand improved methods of holding, storing, and dispensing abrasive strips.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments are illustrated by way of example and are not intended to be limited in the accompanying figures.

FIG. 1 includes a front perspective view of an abrasive strip dispenser in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 2 includes a cross-sectional elevation view of the abrasive strip dispenser in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 3 includes a back perspective view of the abrasive strip dispenser in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 4 includes a side elevation view of the abrasive strip dispenser in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 5 includes a cross-sectional elevation view of the abrasive strip dispenser in accordance with an embodiment.

Skilled artisans appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description in combination with the figures is provided to assist in understanding the teachings disclosed herein. The following discussion will focus on specific implementations and embodiments of the teachings. This focus is provided to assist in describing the teachings and should not be interpreted as a limitation on the scope or applicability of the teachings. However, other embodiments can be used based on the teachings as disclosed.

The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features but can include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive-or and not to an exclusive-or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

Also, the use of “a” or “an” is employed to describe elements and components described herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. This description should be read to include one, at least one, or the singular as also including the plural, or vice versa, unless it is clear that it is meant otherwise. For example, when a single item is described herein, more than one item can be used in place of a single item. Similarly, where more than one item is described herein, a single item can be substituted for that more than one item.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. To the extent not described herein, many details regarding specific materials and processing acts are conventional and can be found in textbooks and other sources within the abrasive arts.

Abrasive strips, sometimes referred to as handy rolls, generally include a continuous strip of material (also called a support substrate or “backing”) including an abrasive component disposed on the strip, wherein the strip is wound in a roll. The abrasive strips, as measured along their lengths, are largely uniform in strength and resilience such that a force required to tear the abrasive strip remains relatively constant at different locations therealong. Skilled artisans will understand that acceptable tolerances permitted during manufacture of the abrasive strips can create slight differentiation in tear resistance and overall strength.

The abrasive strips can be wound such that there are at least two layers of abrasive material overlapping in a radial direction. Typically, the abrasive strips have at least 3 layers, such as at least 4 layers, at least 5 layers, at least 10 layers, at least 20 layers, or even at least 50 layers of abrasive material overlapping in a radial direction.

The central axis of the wound abrasive strip can be hollow, i.e., the abrasive strip is wound upon itself, or can include an annular insert, e.g., a tube support or hub, on which the innermost coil of the wound abrasive strip can rest.

Referring initially to FIGS. 1 and 2, an abrasive strip dispenser 100 can generally include a housing 102 defining an interior volume 104 in which an abrasive strip 2 can be disposed. The interior volume 104 can have capacity of at least 10 cm³, such as at least 15 cm³, at least 20 cm³, at least 30 cm³, at least 45 cm³, at least 75 cm³, or even at least 100 cm³. The interior volume 104 can hold an abrasive strip 2 having a length of at least 0.5 m, such as at least 1 m, at least 2 m, at least 3 m, at least 4 m, at least 5 m, at least 10 m, or even at least 20 m.

The housing 102 can further include an aperture 106, such that the interior volume 104 is in open communication with outside area 4.

The housing 102 can have a generally cuboidal shape (also known as a rectangular prism). More particularly, an exterior surface of the housing 102 can be a cuboid. In an embodiment, the corners or edges of the housing 102 can be rounded, beveled, or otherwise contoured to prevent occurrence of sharp portions. An exterior surface of the housing 102 can be textured, e.g., by embossing, molding, dimpling, pickling, etching, scraping, abrading, or by any other suitable process, in order to enhance grip with a user's hand. In an embodiment, the entire exterior surface of the housing 102 can be textured. In another embodiment, only a portion of the exterior surface of the housing 102 is textured.

In an embodiment, the housing 102 can have a wall thickness, or an average wall thickness, of no greater than 100 mm, such as no greater than 50 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 2 mm, no greater than 1 mm, or even no greater than 0.5 mm. In an embodiment, the wall thickness can be equal at all locations. In another embodiment, the wall thickness can vary such that the wall thickness at a first location is different from the wall thickness at a second location.

The housing 102 can include several arrangements. In an embodiment, the housing 102 can include a major surface 108, a major surface 110, and a sidewall 112 disposed therebetween. The major surfaces 108 and 110 can be spaced apart by a thickness. In an embodiment, the thickness can be uniform at all locations such that the major surfaces 108 and 110 are parallel with one another. In another embodiment, the thickness between major surfaces 108 and 110 can vary such that a thickness at a first location is different from a thickness at a second location.

The sidewall 112 can extend around and connect the major surfaces 108 and 110 together. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the aperture 106 can extend through the sidewall 112. In a non-illustrated embodiment, the aperture can extend along both the sidewall 112 and a portion of at least one of the major surfaces 108 or 110. That is, the aperture 106 can extend beyond the edge of the sidewall 112. For example, in an embodiment, the aperture can 106 extend along a portion of the major surface 108, a portion of the major surface 110, and a portion of the sidewall 112. This can permit increased operational flexibility of the dispenser 100 by allowing an operator to unwind the abrasive strip from the interior volume 104 in a canted direction relative to the sidewall 112 without scraping the housing 102 or unnecessarily abrading the abrasive strip.

In another embodiment, the aperture 106 can be contained exclusively within the sidewall 112. That is, the width of the aperture 106 can be less than 100% of the width of the sidewall 112, as measured between the major surfaces 108 and 110 of the housing 102. In a further embodiment, the width of the aperture 106 can be less than 95% of the width of the housing, such as less than 90% of the width of the housing, less than 85% of the width of the housing, or even less than 80% of the width of the housing. In an embodiment, the width of the aperture 106 is at least 10% the width of the housing 102, such as at least 20% the width of the housing, at least 30% the width of the housing, at least 40% the width of the housing, at least 50% the width of the housing, at least 60% the width of the housing, or even at least 70% the width of the housing.

In an embodiment, the width of the aperture 106 is at least 101% a width of the abrasive strip, such as at least 102% the width of the abrasive strip, at least 103% the width of the abrasive strip, at least 104% the width of the abrasive strip, at least 105% the width of the abrasive strip, or even at least 110% the width of the abrasive strip. In another embodiment, the width of the aperture 106 is no greater than 300% the width of the abrasive strip, such as no greater than 200% the width of the abrasive strip, or even no greater than 150% the width of the abrasive strip. The aperture 106 can have a height, as measured perpendicular to the width, of no greater than 50 mm, such as no greater than 40 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 4 mm, no greater than 3 mm, no greater than 2 mm, or even no greater than 1 mm. The height of the aperture 106 can be no less than 0.1 mm.

In an embodiment, the aperture 106 can have a generally polygonal shape. For example, the aperture 106 can be generally quadrilateral, or even generally rectangular. Other suitable shapes include: a triangle, a pentagon, or any other suitable polygonal shape. In another embodiment, the aperture 106 can be generally ellipsoidal, e.g., an oval.

In an embodiment, the sidewall 112 can include four segments 114, 116, 118, and 120. The segments 114, 116, 118, and 120 can be interconnected to form a continuous sidewall spanning between the major surfaces 108 and 110.

As contemplated herein, the housing 102 includes a resilient material, e.g., a material capable of providing support and protection to the abrasive strip 2. Exemplary materials include metals, alloys, ceramics, polymers, rigid textiles, cellulose based materials, and combinations thereof. In a particular embodiment, the housing 102 can include a corrugated material, such as a corrugated cardboard or corrugated plastic. In this regard, the housing 102 can be disposable. In another embodiment, the housing 102 includes a rigid material, such as a steel or aluminum.

In an embodiment, the housing 102 can be collapsible. That is, the housing 102 can have a size and configuration when in use that is different than the size and configuration when out of use. By way of a non-limiting example, at least one of the segments 114, 116, 118, or 120 can be detachable from an adjacent surface 108 or 110 or segment 114, 116, 118, or 120, thereby allowing an operator to fold, bend, or otherwise manipulate the housing 102 such that it can fold or collapse. Between uses, an operator can collapse the housing 102 to permit easier storage. To facilitate folding, and in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment, at least one of the segments 114, 116, 118, or 120 or surfaces 108 or 110 can be joined to an adjacent segment or surface by a hinge or living hinge material.

In particular embodiments, the housing 102 can include an engagement element 122 adapted to connect with an external mounting component (not illustrated), such as a belt or pocket. The engagement element 122 can be disposed along the exterior surface of the housing 102 and can include, for example, a belt clip. In a particular embodiment, the engagement element 122 can be disposed along one of surfaces 108 or 110. Alternatively, or in addition to a belt clip, the engagement element 122 can include at least one of: a magnet, a closable clip, a loop, a handle, or any other suitable engagement element for engaging the housing 102 with the external component.

Referring now to FIG. 1, at least a portion of the housing 102 can be removable or detachable to permit insertion of the abrasive strip 2 into the interior volume 104. In a particular embodiment, the first major surface 108 and half of the sidewall 112 can together form a first piece, and the second major surface 110 and the other half of the sidewall 112 can together form a second piece. A seam 138 may be visible between the first and second pieces. The first and second pieces can be selectively engageable, e.g., by a threaded fastener, a clamp, or other suitable component or method, such that the interior volume 104 can be accessible to an operator for removal and changing of abrasive strip 2.

In an embodiment, the interior volume 104 of the dispenser 100 can be generally cuboidal, e.g., a cuboid. In an embodiment, the interior volume 104 can have a shape that is generally the same as the exterior surface of the housing 102.

The interior volume 104 can have a width, as measured between interior surfaces of the first and second major surfaces 108 and 110 that is at least 101% of a width of the abrasive strip 2, such as at least 102% the width of the abrasive strip, at least 103% the width of the abrasive strip, at least 104% the width of the abrasive strip, at least 105% the width of the abrasive strip, at least 110% the width of the abrasive strip, or even at least 125% the width of the abrasive strip. In an embodiment, the width of the interior volume 104 can be no greater than 300% the width of the abrasive strip 2, such as no greater than 200% the width of the abrasive strip, or even no greater than 150% the width of the abrasive strip.

A rotatable element 124 can extend through the interior volume 104 between the first and second major surfaces 108 and 110. In an embodiment, the rotatable element 124 rotatably engages with both the first and second major surfaces 108 and 110. The rotatable element 124 can be adapted to receive the abrasive strip 2 such that the abrasive strip 2 is wound around the rotatable element 124. As the abrasive strip 2 is unwound, the rotatable element 124 can rotate relative to the housing 102. Alternatively, in a non-illustrated embodiment, the abrasive strip 2 can be wound around a non-rotatable element. As the abrasive strip 2 is unwound, the abrasive strip 2 can rotate relative to the non-rotatable element. The rotatable, or non-rotatable, element can at least partially comprise a polymer, metal, alloy, or combinations thereof.

In certain embodiments, the rotatable element 124 can be rotatably biased, e.g., by a spring (not illustrated). In this regard, a rotatable tension can be applied on the abrasive strip 2. In an embodiment, the rotatable tension is applied in a direction opposite to a direction in which the abrasive strip is unwound from the rotatable element 124. This can prevent unwanted unrolling, and can provide a biasing force, keeping the abrasive strip 2 taught.

In an embodiment, the dispenser 100 can further include a biasing element 138. The biasing element 138 can be motorized and capable of automatically dispensing abrasive strip 2 from the interior volume 104. The biasing element 138 can be powered, for example, by a current storage device contained within the housing 102, such as a battery. In an embodiment, the current storage device can be disposable. In another embodiment, the current storage device is rechargeable. Engagement of the biasing element 138 can be by way of an actuator disposed in, or along, the housing 102. Upon engagement, the biasing element 138 can bias the abrasive strip 2 through the aperture 106 for use. In a particular embodiment, the biasing element 138 can include a motor, such as a rotatable motor. The biasing element 138 can transfer biasing force to the abrasive strip 2 through one or more gears disposed in the dispenser 100. The gears can include rotary gears, a rack and pinion, or any other suitable gear arrangement.

Referring to FIG. 3, in an embodiment, a portion of the rotatable element 124 can extend beyond the exterior surface of the housing 102. That is, the rotatable element 124 can be visible along the exterior surface of the housing 102. The visible portion of the rotatable element 124 can include a pattern or texture to enhance a user' s grip therewith. As illustrated, in a non-limiting embodiment, the visible portion of the rotatable element 124 can include a radial spoke pattern.

The visible portion of the rotatable element 124 can be helpful, for example, when an operator unwinds a greater amount of the abrasive strip 2 than needed. In this situation, the visible portion of the rotatable element 124 can be engaged to re-wind a portion of the abrasive strip 2 onto the rotatable element 124. Alternatively, the biasing element 138 described above can operate in a bi-directional manner so as to be capable of re-winding the abrasive strip 2.

Referring again to FIG. 2, in a particular embodiment, the dispenser 100 further includes an element 126 adjacent to the aperture 106. The element 126 can allow for easier removal of the abrasive strip 2 from the dispenser 100. In an embodiment, the element 126 may include a material having a low coefficient of friction, e.g., PTFE, reducing sliding forces associated with the buildup of friction between the abrasive strip 2 and the housing 102. In another embodiment, the element 126 can include a rotatable wheel which may rotate during removal of the abrasive strip 2 from the interior volume 104.

A guide element 128 can further assist with removal of the abrasive strip 2 from the dispenser 100. The guide element 128 can include an opening 130 to allow the abrasive strip 2 to pass therethrough. The guide element 128 can be disposed along the exterior surface of the housing 102, such as along the sidewall 112. The guide element 128 can connect with the exterior surface of the housing 102 at two or more locations. In a particular embodiment, the guide element 128 can comprise a generally U-shape coupled to the housing 102.

In an embodiment, the guide element 128 can be disposed along the same surface of the housing 102 as the aperture 106. For example, as illustrated, both the guide element 128 and the aperture 106 can be disposed along the sidewall segment 114. The guide element 128 can be spaced apart from the aperture 106 by a distance, D_(GE). In particular embodiments, D_(GE) can be at least 1 mm, such as at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm, at least 50 mm, at least 75 mm, or even at least 100 mm. In a further embodiment, D_(GE) can be no greater than 500 mm, such as no greater than 250 mm, or even no greater than 125 mm.

In an embodiment, the guide element 128 can include a sharpened portion 131. The sharpened portion 130 can be disposed at a location such that the abrasive strip 2 is passed thereover. Skilled artisans will appreciate that application of an appropriately oriented force will permit rupture of the abrasive strip 2 at the sharpened portion 130.

In certain embodiments, it can be advantageous for the dispenser 100 to further include an engagement element to secure the abrasive strip at a relative position with respect to the housing 102. That is, the engagement element can prevent the abrasive strip from rewinding or retracting into the interior volume 104 such that no portion of the abrasive strip 2 is visible outside of the housing 102. Referring to FIG. 4, an engagement element 132 is illustrated pivotally engaged with the housing 102. The engagement element 132 can be selectively brought toward the abrasive strip 2. For example, the engagement element 132 can selectively move between a locked position, whereby the abrasive strip 2 is secured at a fixed relative location along the housing 102, and an unlocked position, whereby the abrasive strip 2 can move relative to the housing 102.

In an embodiment, the engagement element 132 can rupture the abrasive strip 102 into smaller pieces. That is, the engagement element 132 can include a sharpened portion 131 similar to sharpened portion 130, described above.

In an embodiment, the engagement element 132 can be disposed on the same surface of the housing 102 as the aperture 106. The engagement element 132 can be spaced apart from the aperture 106 by a distance, D_(EE). In particular embodiments, D_(EE) can be at least 1 mm, such as at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm, at least 50 mm, at least 75 mm, or even at least 100 mm. In a further embodiment, D_(EE) can be no greater than 500 mm, such as no greater than 250 mm, or even no greater than 125 mm.

Referring to FIG. 5, in certain embodiments, the dispenser 100 can further include a stopping element 134 disposed at least partially within the housing 102. The stopping element 134 can be coupled to the housing 102 and selectively permit passage of the abrasive strip 2 through the aperture 106. In a particular embodiment, the stopping element 134 is translatable in a direction transverse to the abrasive strip 2 within the aperture 106.

The stopping element 134 can be translatable between a closed position, where passage of the abrasive strip 2 through the aperture 106 is prevented, to an open position, where passage of the abrasive strip 2 through the aperture 106 is permitted.

At least one surface of the stopping element 134 can be exposed beyond the exterior surface of the housing 102 such that an operator can selectively translate the stopping element 134 between the open and closed positions. The stopping element 134 can have a textured portion in order to enhance an operator's grip therewith.

In an embodiment, the stopping element 134 has an engagement surface 136 adapted to engage and selectively permit translation of the abrasive strip 2. The engagement surface 136 can be flat, or generally flat. This can enhance surface contact between the stopping element 134 and the abrasive strip 2. In an embodiment, the engagement surface 136 can include a textured portion so as to enhance grip with the abrasive strip 2. The engagement surface 136 can include an abrasive-like material, or an otherwise rough texture to enhance engagement with the abrasive strip 2.

Many different aspects and embodiments are possible. Some of those aspects and embodiments are described below. After reading this specification, skilled artisans will appreciate that those aspects and embodiments are only illustrative and do not limit the scope of the present invention. Embodiments may be in accordance with any one or more of the embodiments as listed below.

Embodiment 1. An abrasive strip dispenser comprising:

-   -   a housing defining an interior volume and an aperture extending         through the housing such that the interior volume is in open         communication with an outside area; and     -   a guide element disposed along an exterior surface of the         housing,     -   wherein the abrasive strip is disposable within the housing such         that the abrasive strip extends through the aperture and the         guide element.

Embodiment 2. An abrasive strip dispenser comprising:

-   -   a housing defining an interior volume and an aperture extending         through the housing such that the interior volume is in open         communication with an outside area;     -   a component coupled to the housing and adapted to selectively         permit a user to rupture the abrasive strip into two or more         smaller pieces.

Embodiment 3. An abrasive strip dispenser comprising:

-   -   a housing defining an interior volume and an aperture extending         through the housing such that the interior volume is in open         communication with an outside area;     -   a stopping element coupled to the housing and adapted to         selectively permit passage of the abrasive strip through the         aperture.

Embodiment 4. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the housing further comprises an engagement element disposed along an exterior surface of the housing.

Embodiment 5. The abrasive strip dispenser according to embodiment 4, wherein the engagement element comprises a belt clip.

Embodiment 6. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the housing is a cuboid.

Embodiment 7. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the housing comprises a resilient material, such as a metal.

Embodiment 8. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein an exterior surface of the housing is textured to enhance grip.

Embodiment 9. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the housing has a wall thickness of no greater than 2 mm, such as no greater than 1 mm, or even no greater than 0.5 mm.

Embodiment 10. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the housing comprises:

-   -   a first major surface;     -   a second major surface; and     -   a sidewall disposed between the first and second major surfaces.

Embodiment 11. The abrasive strip dispenser according to embodiment 10, wherein the sidewall further comprises at least four segments.

Embodiment 12. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the interior volume has a width that is at least 101% of a width of the abrasive strip, such as at least 102% the width of the abrasive strip, at least 103% the width of the abrasive strip, at least 104% the width of the abrasive strip, at least 105% the width of the abrasive strip, at least 110% the width of the abrasive strip, or even at least 125% the width of the abrasive strip.

Embodiment 13. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the interior volume is a cuboid.

Embodiment 14. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the interior volume further comprises:

-   -   a rotatable element adapted to receive the abrasive strip,     -   wherein the abrasive strip is wound around the rotatable         element.

Embodiment 15. The abrasive strip dispenser according to embodiment 14, wherein the rotatable element extends between opposing sidewalls of the housing and rotatably engages therewith.

Embodiment 16. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 14 and 15, wherein the rotatable element is rotatably biased in a direction opposite to a direction in which the abrasive strip is peeled from the rotatable element.

Embodiment 17. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 14-16, wherein the rotatable element is rotatably biased by a spring.

Embodiment 18. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 14-17, wherein the rotatable element at least partially comprises a polymer.

Embodiment 19. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the aperture is disposed along a sidewall of the housing.

Embodiment 20. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the housing comprises a first major surface, a second major surface, and a sidewall disposed between the first and second major surface, and wherein the aperture is disposed along the sidewall.

Embodiment 21. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the housing has a width, as measured between a first and a second major surface, and wherein a width of the aperture is less than 100% the width of the housing, such as less than 95% the width of the housing, less than 90% the width of the housing, less than 85% the width of the housing, or even less than 80% the width of the housing.

Embodiment 22. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the housing has a width, as measured between a first and a second major surface, and wherein a width of the aperture is at least 20% the width of the housing, such as at least 30% the width of the housing, at least 40% the width of the housing, at least 50% the width of the housing, at least 60% the width of the housing, or even at least 70% the width of the housing.

Embodiment 23. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the aperture has a width that is at least 101% a width of the abrasive strip, such as at least 102% the width of the abrasive strip, at least 103% the width of the abrasive strip, at least 104% the width of the abrasive strip, at least 105% the width of the abrasive strip, or even at least 110% the width of the abrasive strip.

Embodiment 24. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the aperture has a height of no greater than 5 mm, such as no greater than 4 mm, no greater than 3 mm, no greater than 2 mm, or even no greater than 1 mm.

Embodiment 25. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the aperture is generally polygonal, such as generally quadrilateral, such as rectangular.

Embodiment 26. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the aperture further comprises:

-   -   an element disposed adjacent to the aperture and adapted to         facilitate removal of abrasive strip from the abrasive strip         dispenser.

Embodiment 27. The abrasive strip dispenser according to embodiment 26, wherein the element comprises a rotatable wheel coupled to the housing, and wherein the rotatable wheel facilitates removal of abrasive strip from the abrasive strip dispenser.

Embodiment 28. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 26 and 27, wherein the element comprises a low friction material.

Embodiment 29. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising:

-   -   a guide element disposed along an exterior surface of the         housing.

Embodiment 30. The abrasive strip dispenser according to embodiment 29, wherein the guide element is coupled to the housing, and wherein the abrasive strip is adapted to extend between at least a portion of the guide element and the housing.

Embodiment 31. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 29 and 30, wherein the guide element defines an opening.

Embodiment 32. The abrasive strip dispenser according to embodiment 31, wherein the opening has a similar size to the aperture.

Embodiment 33. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 29-32, wherein the guide element is generally U-shaped.

Embodiment 34. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 29-33, wherein the guide element further comprises a sharpened portion adapted to rupture the abrasive strip.

Embodiment 35. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 29-34, wherein the guide element is disposed a distance from the aperture of at least 1 mm, such as at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, or even at least 30 mm.

Embodiment 36. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 29-34, wherein the guide element and aperture are disposed along a same surface of the housing.

Embodiment 37. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising:

-   -   an engageable element coupled to the housing and adapted to         secure the abrasive strip at a relative position to the housing.

Embodiment 38. The abrasive strip dispenser according to embodiment 37, wherein the engageable element is pivotally engaged to the housing.

Embodiment 39. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 37 and 38, wherein the engageable element is adapted to rupture the abrasive strip into smaller pieces.

Embodiment 40. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 37-39, wherein the engageable element comprises a rigid material, such as a metal.

Embodiment 41. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 37-40, wherein an operator can selectively toggle the engageable element between:

-   -   a locked position, whereby the abrasive strip is secured at a         fixed relative location; and     -   an unlocked position, whereby the abrasive strip can move         relative to the housing.

Embodiment 42. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 37-41, wherein the engageable element is disposed on a same surface of the housing as the aperture.

Embodiment 43. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 37-42, wherein the engageable element is disposed a distance from the aperture, and wherein the distance is at least 1 mm, such as at least 2 mm, at least 3 mm, at least 4 mm, at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm, at least 50 mm, or even at least 75 mm.

Embodiment 44. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising a stopping element coupled to the housing and adapted to selectively permit passage of the abrasive strip through the aperture.

Embodiment 45. The abrasive strip dispenser according to embodiment 44, wherein the stopping element is translatable between a closed position and an open position.

Embodiment 46. The abrasive strip dispenser according to embodiment 45, wherein the stopping element is at least partially blocks the aperture when in the closed position.

Embodiment 47. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 44-46, wherein the stopping element extends beyond the housing such that an operator can selectively translate the stopping element between open and closed positions.

Embodiment 48. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 44-47, wherein the stopping element has a surface including a textured portion, the textured portion permitting enhanced grip therewith.

Embodiment 49. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 44-48, wherein the stopping element comprises a polymer.

Embodiment 50. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 44-49, wherein the stopping element extends at least partially into the interior volume of the housing, and wherein a cutout extends through the housing along which the stopping element translates.

Embodiment 51. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 44-50, wherein an engagement surface of the stopping element is adapted to contact the abrasive strip when the stopping element is in the closed position, and wherein the engagement surface is flat.

Embodiment 52. The abrasive strip dispenser according to embodiment 51, wherein the engagement surface comprises a texture adapted to engage the abrasive strip.

Embodiment 53. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the interior volume has a capacity of at least 10 cm³, such as at least 15 cm³, at least 20 cm³, at least 30 cm³, at least 45 cm³, at least 75 cm³, or even at least 100 cm³.

Embodiment 54. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the interior volume is adapted to hold an abrasive strip having a length of at least 0.5 m, such as at least 1 m, at least 2 m, at least 3 m, at least 4 m, at least 5 m, at least 10 m, or even at least 20 m.

Embodiment 55. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the abrasive strip is automatically dispensed from the interior volume of the housing through the aperture.

Embodiment 56. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising:

-   -   a biasing element adapted to bias abrasive strip from the         interior volume.

Embodiment 57. The abrasive strip dispenser according to embodiment 56, wherein the biasing element comprises a motor.

Embodiment 58. The abrasive strip dispenser according to any one of embodiments 56 and 57, further comprising:

-   -   one or more gears adapted to transfer force from the biasing         element and dispense abrasive strip.

Note that not all of the features described above are required, that a portion of a specific feature may not be required, and that one or more features may be provided in addition to those described. Still further, the order in which features are described is not necessarily the order in which the features are installed.

Certain features are, for clarity, described herein in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any subcombinations.

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments, However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature of any or all the claims.

The specification and illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various embodiments. The specification and illustrations are not intended to serve as an exhaustive and comprehensive description of all of the elements and features of apparatus and systems that use the structures or methods described herein. Separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment, and conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any subcombination. Further, reference to values stated in ranges includes each and every value within that range. Many other embodiments may be apparent to skilled artisans only after reading this specification. Other embodiments may be used and derived from the disclosure, such that a structural substitution, logical substitution, or any change may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure is to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An abrasive strip dispenser comprising: a housing defining an interior volume and an aperture extending through the housing such that the interior volume is in open communication with an outside area; and a guide element disposed along an exterior surface of the housing, wherein the abrasive strip is disposable within the housing such that the abrasive strip extends through the aperture and the guide element.
 2. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the guide element is coupled to the housing, and wherein the abrasive strip is adapted to extend between at least a portion of the guide element and the housing.
 3. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the guide element further comprises a sharpened portion adapted to rupture the abrasive strip.
 4. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the guide element and aperture are disposed along a same surface of the housing.
 5. An abrasive strip dispenser comprising: a housing defining an interior volume and an aperture extending through the housing such that the interior volume is in open communication with an outside area; a component coupled to the housing and adapted to selectively permit a user to rupture the abrasive strip into two or more smaller pieces.
 6. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 5, wherein the housing further comprises a belt clip disposed along an exterior surface of the housing.
 7. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 5, wherein the housing is a cuboid.
 8. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 5, wherein the housing comprises a metal.
 9. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 5, wherein an exterior surface of the housing is textured.
 10. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 5, wherein the housing comprises: a first major surface; a second major surface; and a sidewall disposed between the first and second major surfaces.
 11. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 5, wherein the interior volume is a cuboid.
 12. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 5, wherein the interior volume further comprises: a rotatable element adapted to receive the abrasive strip, wherein the abrasive strip is wound around the rotatable element.
 13. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 12, wherein the rotatable element is rotatably biased in a direction opposite to a direction in which the abrasive strip is peeled from the rotatable element.
 14. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 5, further comprising: an engageable element coupled to the housing and adapted to secure the abrasive strip at a relative position to the housing.
 15. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 14, wherein an operator can selectively toggle the engageable element between: a locked position, whereby the abrasive strip is secured at a fixed relative location; and an unlocked position, whereby the abrasive strip can move relative to the housing.
 16. An abrasive strip dispenser comprising: a housing defining an interior volume and an aperture extending through the housing such that the interior volume is in open communication with an outside area; a stopping element coupled to the housing and adapted to selectively permit passage of the abrasive strip through the aperture.
 17. The abrasive strip dispenser according to 16, wherein the stopping element is adapted to at least partially block the aperture when in a closed position.
 18. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 16, further comprising: a biasing element adapted to bias abrasive strip from the interior volume.
 19. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 16, wherein the housing further comprises a belt clip disposed along an exterior surface of the housing.
 20. The abrasive strip dispenser according to claim 16, wherein the interior volume is a cuboid. 